2026 Speakers

His Majesty Kgosi (King) Leruo Tshekedi Molotlegi, King of the Royal Bafokeng Nation

Kgosi (King) Leruo Tshekedi Molotlegi is the leader, since 2000, of the 150,000 strong Royal Bafokeng Nation in Phokeng, North West Province of the Republic of South Africa. The Royal Bafokeng Nation covers some 1000 square km, and located approximately 100 km northwest of Pretoria. Kgosi Leruo is the 36th King of the Bafokeng and the 15th direct descendent of a long lineage of the Bafokeng kings. 

Under Kgosi Leruo’s leadership, the Royal Bafokeng Supreme Council has embarked on a mission to create a socially and economically enabling environment by the year 2035. Vision 2035 was derived from a Masterplan launched in 2006 in consultation with Singaporean planners. Under Vision 2035, education is the primary focus of the Bafokeng development plan. Other fundamentals of Vision 2035 are: Good governance and leadership; Stewardship of resources, being land, financial assets and infrastructure; Entrepreneurship and economic opportunity; Educated and healthy individuals. 

Kgosi Leruo served as the Chancellor of North West University for 10 years. He graduated from Hilton College in Natal and was awarded the Victor Ludorum medallion for best athlete. He holds a degree in Architecture and Urban Planning from the University of Natal. Kgosi Leruo is a fixed wing and rotorcraft pilot and served as an honorary Colonel in the South African Air Force. 

Her Majesty Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po – the Māori Queen

Te Arikinui, the Māori Queen, is the eighth sovereign of the Kiingitanga, the Māori King Movement, and a prominent voice for Māori rights, culture and self‑determination in Aotearoa New Zealand. Continuing a dynastic line that has defended mana motuhake (self-determination) and Māori lands and identity since 1858, she urges Māori to “walk a new path” toward economic independence and resist forces that undermine Māori initiatives. [In her address], she will discuss intergenerational leadership, Crown–Indigenous relations and Indigenous nation‑building in a shifting political landscape, offering lessons for Indigenous nations navigating their own futures.

National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak (Pinaymootang First Nation), National Chief, Assembly of First Nations Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak has served as National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations since December of 2023, elected by First Nations leadership across Canada. She is a proud member of Pinaymootang First Nation in Treaty 2 Territory, raised in a family with deep roots in leadership and community service. Her father was a longstanding Chief, her mother, a respected educator, and her Ancestor Chief Richard Woodhouse, a signatory to Treaty No. 2 in 1871. As the youngest woman and first mother to hold the office of National Chief, Woodhouse Nepinak is dedicated to advancing the rights and well-being of First Nations. She is recognized for her advocacy at all levels of government and the United Nations, focusing on Treaty rights, self-determination, addressing issues such as the second-generation cut-off, bail reform, clean drinking water and infrastructure gaps. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Winnipeg and has completed leadership programs at Harvard Business School. Her honours include the King Charles III Coronation medal (2025), Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal (2022) and honourary fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society. In 2024, she was successful in pushing for the approval of an accord at the World Intellectual Property Organization’s (WIPO) Diplomatic Conference on Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge, in Geneva, Switzerland. The approval of the international accord helps to protect Indigenous Peoples traditional medicines, use of genetic resources and knowledge associated with genetic resources. Also in 2024, National Chief successfully lobbied and secured $23 billion dollars in settlement compensation for Child and Family Services and Jordan’s Principle for First Nations. MacLean’s magazine (2025) noted her as one of Canada’s most influential Canadians for her leadership, “Trade wars and tariffs may dominate headlines, but she insists: no prosperity without partnership, and no extraction without consent.”

Honourable Doug Ford, Premier, Ontario

The Honourable Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation Minister Responsible for Ring of Fire Economic and Community Partnerships Minister Responsible for Ring of Fire Economic and Community Partnerships

The Honourable Greg Rickford was first elected to the Ontario Legislature as the MPP
for Kenora—Rainy River in 2018 and re-elected in 2022 and 2025. Over the past eight years, he has been Minister of Indigenous Affairs and Chairman of the Cabinet Committee for Economic and Resource Policy. In June 2024, his portfolio was expanded to include Minister of First Nations Economic Reconciliation and in March 2025, additional responsibility was added as Minister Responsible for Ring of Fire Economic and Community Partnerships.

Minister Rickford also served Premier Ford as the Minister of the Minister of Northern Development and Chair of the Northern Ontario Heritage fund, Minister of Energy, the Minister of Mines, and the Minister of Natural Resources & Forestry, in addition to his current portfolios.
Minister Rickford’s academic and professional journey has been an interesting one: a lifelong learning plan focussed on the pursuit of excellence in advocacy spanning three careers that include nursing, the practice of law, and politics.

Minister Rickford has a Diploma in nursing from Mohawk College, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Victoria, specializing in community health nursing. The Minister’s nursing career includes working in multiple specialized clinical settings in hospitals throughout North America and close to a decade working in northern isolated Indigenous communities across Canada.  He has an MBA from Université of Laval as well as Bachelors’ of Common Law & Civil Law from McGill University. His law practice focussed on Indigenous Matters including being a signatory to the Indian Residential School Agreement, Indigenous governance, economic and health opportunities.

From 2008 to 2015 Minister Rickford, served as the federal Member of Parliament for Kenora. During that time, he served Prime Minister Harper as the Parliamentary Secretary for Aboriginal Affairs & Northern Development, Minister of State for Science & Technology, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario, and finally, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources.

That said, the most important job he has ever had is being a father to his two daughters.

Honourable Brian Jean, K.C., ECA, Minister of Energy and Minerals

Brian Jean was sworn in as the Minister of Energy and Minerals on June 9, 2023. He previously served as the Minister of Jobs, Economy and Northern Development. 

Prior to his service as an elected official at the provincial level, Mr. Jean was a Member of Parliament from 2004 to 2014 where he served as the Parliamentary Secretary to 3 different Ministers of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities. He has also previously dedicated 11 years to private legal practice as partner at a large Northern Alberta law firm, primarily as a litigator, and owned several successful small businesses. 

Mr. Jean holds a Bachelor of Laws as well as a Bachelor of Science and a Masters in Business Administration. 

Brian Jean was first elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Fort McMurray-Conklin May 5, 2015, and as the Member for Fort McMurray-Lac La Biche on March 16, 2022 and was re-elected on May 29, 2023. 

Mayor Michael Spence, Mayor of Churchill, Arctic Gateway Group Board Chairperson

The Honourable Mayor Michael Spence was born and raised in Churchill, Manitoba. After graduating, he was employed with Federal Public Works Department and Churchill pre-fab housing plan. From 1976 to present Mayor Spence has developed three successful ongoing businesses, including ownership of a very successful local full service hotel.

Among Mayor Spence’s businesses achievements is Wat’chee Expeditions, a specialized eco-tourism company that provides guided activities into Wapusk National Park from his lodge in the Churchill Wildlife Management Area. Of particular interests to visitors are the denning polar bears that can be observed during the operating season, which extends from mid-February through March.

Mayor Spence was elected as Councillor in 1989 and served on Churchill Economic Advisory Committee and also served as the chairman of the Churchill Regional Health Centre Board. In 1992, Mayor Spence was re-elected and installed as Deputy Mayor. Mr. Spence was elected Mayor in 1995 and has served consecutively in that capacity since.

Mayor Spence is very active in the promotion of Churchill, tourism, and preservation of Northern Culture and Heritage, and sits as chairperson on the Arctic Gateway Group Board of Directors

John McKenzie, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), TMX Group.

Mr. McKenzie is a member of the TMX Group Board of Directors and also a member of the Board of Directors of several TMX Group subsidiaries.

Prior to his appointment as CEO on August 17, 2020, Mr. McKenzie served as TMX Group Chief Financial Officer and was responsible for corporate strategy, corporate development, investor relations and the financial management of the company as well as for the administrative oversight of TMX Group’s Capital Formation business.

Working with TMX for over 20 years, Mr. McKenzie’s career has included senior roles within Corporate Strategy and Development and Corporate Finance. He has led financial and strategic planning efforts and managed various TMX acquisitions, including the Maple transaction, the acquisitions of Montréal Exchange and Trayport, as well as the resulting integration initiatives.

From July 2015 to August 2016, he served as President of CDS, Canada’s equity and fixed income clearing house and a wholly-owned subsidiary of TMX Group. Prior to that he was the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and CFO of CDS.

Mr. McKenzie is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CMA) and has an MBA from Edinburgh Business School, Heriot-Watt University and an Honours BA from Wilfrid Laurier University. He has served on a number of boards, and currently is a member of The Accounting Standards Oversight Council and a Board Member for the Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation.

Craig West, CEO, Tainui Group Holdings

Doug MacDonald, Senior Vice-President and Global Head of Distribution, CIBC Global Asset Management

Doug MacDonald is responsible for oversight and expansion of CIBC Global Asset Management’s (CIBC GAM) distribution platform, including the coordination and distribution of client solutions through various CIBC GAM channels globally.

Prior to joining CIBC in 2015, Doug was President of Aviva Investors Canada Inc. At Aviva, he led the company with a focus on growth, profitability and performance of the firm’s Canadian institutional asset base. Doug previously worked at KBSH Capital Management as a fixed income and dividend equity portfolio manager and began his career with ING Investment Management.

Doug holds an MBA degree from York University and a Bachelor of Commerce degree from McMaster University. He is also a CFA charterholder.

Valerie Helbronner, Partner, Torys LLP 

With over 25 years of project-related experience, Valerie has been at the forefront of the development and financing of numerous precedent-setting projects across Canada. She acts for the spectrum of clients involved in project development and financing, including Indigenous groups, project proponents, lenders, investors, contractors, and governmental authorities. 

As co-head of Torys’ Indigenous practice, Valerie’s project practice includes advising on complex infrastructure developments impacting Indigenous interest and parties, where she brings a robust perspective on different parties’ interests and priorities. She is trusted counsel to Indigenous and non-Indigenous project participants, her recent work notably includes advising: Wataynikaneyap Project as lead project counsel for over ten years on all aspects of the development, financing, construction and operation of the Wataynikaneyap Transmission Project in northwestern Ontario; Alto (formerly VIA HFR) on all matters relating to the permitting and engagement with over 40 Indigenous communities for the proposed high-speed rail network spanning almost 1,000 km between Québec City and Toronto; and the Government of Canada in its re-initiated consultation process with 129 Indigenous groups on the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion Project alongside The Honorable Frank Iacobucci, the largest consultation effort to date in Canadian history. 

Valerie’s practice extends to energy project development and financing, including having been involved in some of the earliest and most innovative renewable projects in Ontario and across Canada. She is a recognized leader in the Canadian energy sector and has held various industry appointments in the power sector, including serving as a board member of the Canadian Wind Energy Association, past Chair of the Ontario Waterpower Association, and past member of the Independent Electricity System Operator Stakeholder Advisory Committee. 

Nirushan Thambirajah, Managing Director, Energy, Infrastructure & Transition, CIBC

Nirushan Thambirajah is a Managing Director in CIBC’s Energy, Infrastructure & Transition team. Niru leads Corporate Banking industry coverage for Independent Power Producers and Regulated Utilities with a focus on originating and executing Project and Corporate Finance transactions across power markets in Canada. 

Prior to joining CIBC, Niru spent time at both RBC Capital Markets and MUFG where he focused on industry coverage across Power, Regulated Utilities and Infrastructure Sponsors across Canada. Over the past 15 years, Niru has originated and executed numerous financings across senior debt and Holdco debt financings for greenfield and brownfield power, infrastructure and renewable assets in North America. 

Niru received his Masters of Business Administration from the DeGroote School of Business at McMaster University and holds a Bachelors of Economics & Finance from Wilfrid Laurier University 

Gordon Keesic, (Lac Seul First Nation), Portfolio Manager, Vice President and National Head, Indigenous Investment Services, RBC Global Asset Management

Gordon J. Keesic: MBA (2011), Athabasca University; CIM (2010); BEd (2000), Lakehead University; Hons BA (1999), Brock University.  Gord is an Institutional Portfolio Manager and the National Head of PH&N’s Indigenous Investment Services team for institutional investment accounts.  Prior to his current role, he was an Investment Advisor at a leading Canadian investment dealer for six years, where he provided relevant financial advisory services as well as managed investment accounts, settlements moneys and trust funds for First Nations throughout the province of Ontario. 

Gord is also a band member of Lac Seul First Nation, which is located near Sioux Lookout, in Northwestern Ontario. 

  

Dr. Sue von der Porten, Vice President of Clean Energy Strategy, FNMPC 

Sue has a Ph.D. in Environment and Resource Studies focused on Indigenous governance and water governance from the University of Waterloo, as well as an MBA and a B.Sc. from the University of Victoria. Her postdoctoral research at Simon Fraser University focused on the changing roles of Indigenous coastal nations, governments, and industry in relation to marine conservation. She is the lead author on the National Indigenous Electrification Strategy, and is focused on FNMPC’s thought leadership in clean energy, electrification, transmission and Indigenous utilities. Her research is focus on environmental decision-making and the inherent rights of Indigenous nations. Sue is a Research Associate with the Nereus Program and is an Action Canada Fellowship Program Alumnus (2010/2011).

She is a former wildland firefighter and now lives on lək̓ʷəŋən unceded territory. 

Mark Podlasly, CEO of FNMPC

Mark Podlasly, a member of the Nlaka’pamux Nation in British Columbia, serves as Chief Executive Officer at the First Nations Major Projects Coalition (FNMPC). Mark has been integral to the development and growth of FNMPC since its inception, driving engagement and advocacy for greater economic participation for member nations in major projects across Canada. Mark also led the coalition’s policy and research initiatives as the Chief Sustainability Officer.

Mark also chairs the First Nations Limited Partnership (pipelines), serves as a Trustee of the Nlaka’pamux Nation Legacy Trust, and sits on the boards of CIBC and Hydro One. In 2017, he received the Governor General of Canada’s Meritorious Service Medal; recognized for his contributions to Indigenous economic development. A graduate of the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Mark is a regular speaker at global business and governance events, sharing his expertise at global forums and in boardrooms across Canada.

Tristan Jackson, CEO, Nikutik LP, the Sovereign Wealth Fund of NSMTC

Tristan Jackson is CEO of Nikutik LP, the Sovereign Wealth Fund of NSMTC and its seven member Nations. Tristan’s background is in energy development and new business creation across distributed energy systems (DES), microgrids, utility scale solar, wind, gas, smart grid, energy storage, and nuclear. He holds an MBA from MIT Sloan School of Management and a double-major in Psychology and Sociology from Cornell University.

Tristan is a life-long advocate for profitable, practical solutions that advance sustainability and ensure affordable, reliable energy is increasingly available to drive prosperity and growth.

Monique Fry (Xwchíyò:m First Nation), Manager Indigenous Strategy, Procon

Born and raised in Vancouver, Monique is a proud member of the Xwchíyò:m First Nation on her grandfather’s side and the Shíshálh Nation on her grandmother’s side—both located-on territories currently known as British Columbia. She has recently joined Procon Mining & Tunnelling as the new Manager of Indigenous Strategy to continue enhancing their strong work and relationships with First Nations communities and partners. Monique and her husband also manage a 100% First Nations-owned consultancy firm called Sustainative Inc.  

With over 17 years of experience in cross-cultural communication, Monique specializes in fostering meaningful engagement and building respectful relationships with Indigenous communities. She holds both a BA and MA in Communication and Culture from the University of Calgary, with a focus on International Indigenous Studies, Culture, and Society. 

Her career spans multiple sectors, including non-profit, urban Indigenous organizations, social investment, energy, mining, technology, and post-secondary education.  Guided by values of transparency, ethical practice, and cultural protocol, Monique strives to center Indigenous ways of knowing in all aspects of her work and life. Elders have referred to her as a Cultural Mediator, recognizing her efforts to bridge understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. 

Caleb Adams (Wulli Wulli [Australia]), Dilin Duwa Centre for Indigenous Business Leadership 

Caleb, a proud Wulli Wulli man, is a PhD Candidate at the University of Melbourne Faculty of Business and Economics. His research within the Dilin Duwa Centre for Indigenous Business Leadership focuses on unlocking financial capital to empower First Nations in leadership in and for a Green Economy. 

Professionally, Caleb is a Portfolio Manager at an institutional asset owner, focused on addressing environmental, social and governance (ESG) risks and opportunities through investment strategy and capital allocation. He holds governance roles across the for-purpose sector, including as a non-voting member of the Clean Energy Finance Corporation Audit and Risk Committee, a member of the Foundation for Young Australians Investment Committee, and a member of the Value Australia Advisory Board. He previously served as a Non-Executive Director of Climate Action Network Australia and held advisory roles with the Responsible Investment Association of Australasia (RIAA), Australian Sustainable Finance Institute (ASFI), Philanthropy Australia, NEXUS Australia, and Ormond College. 

Caleb holds a Master of Development Studies from the University of Melbourne, a Bachelor of Environmental Engineering from Griffith University, and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD). 

Morris Morrison (Selkirk First Nation), Manager, Community Relations, Selkirk Mining

Mr. Morrison is a proud Selkirk First Nation citizen of the Wolf Clan, born and raised in the Yukon Territory. Grounded in strong cultural teachings and traditional values, he is committed to advancing respectful development and long-term opportunities for future generations. 

He served in Selkirk First Nation leadership from 2017 to 2023 as Councillor, including roles as Deputy Chief and Acting Chief, gaining experience in governance, strategic decision-making, and partnership building. He also served as Executive Youth for the Council of Yukon First Nations, ensuring youth voices were represented at the leadership level. 

Mr. Morrison previously worked as Selkirk First Nation’s Mining/Communications Liaison Officer, supporting employment, training, and community engagement related to mining activities. He currently serves as Chair of the Board of Directors for Selkirk Development Corporation (SDC), where he supports initiatives that create jobs and drive long-term economic growth for Selkirk citizens. 

As Manager, Community Relations with Selkirk Copper, Mr. Morrison leads community and Indigenous engagement, working closely with Selkirk First Nation and SDC to build strong, respectful relationships and advance opportunities in training, employment, and business development. 

Grounded in traditional knowledge, he remains committed to balancing economic opportunity with respect for culture, land, and future generations. In his personal time, he enjoys hunting and fishing on the land where he was raised. 

Brittanee Laverdure, Director, Truth and Reconciliation Office, RBC Origins

Sashen Guneratna, Executive Vice President, Public Infrastructure, Canada Infrastructure Bank 

Sashen Guneratna is a senior infrastructure finance leader with deep experience delivering large-scale investments across several different asset types. As Executive Vice President, Public Infrastructure, he leads a team focused on investments with contracted revenue streams that deliver stable, year over year impacts for Canadians, in areas including power transmission, non-emitting generation, energy storage, trade and transportation, investments to enable housing and digital infrastructure. 

During his tenure at the CIB, Sashen has been responsible for the $10B+ clean power and broadband priority sectors, leading investments across the country in renewable power, transmission, energy storage and district energy, including spearheading the CIB’s investment in Canada’s first small modular reactor and the organization’s first interprovincial transmission and equity investment. 

Sashen brings more than 25 years of banking and advisory experience across multiple sectors and jurisdictions. Prior to joining the CIB, he was a Partner in PwC’s Capital Projects and Infrastructure group, with a focus on power and utilities, water and wastewater, and Indigenous-led projects. Sashen previously worked in debt capital markets and project finance advisory at National Bank Financial and power and utilities lending at Scotia Capital. 

He holds an MBA and BBA from the Schulich School of Business, an ICD.D designation from Rotman, and serves on the board of Wasoqonatl Transmission Inc. 

Elsa Doxtdator-Jansson, (Haudenosaunee) Indigenous Student Engagement Advisor, UBC Sauder School of Business.

Elsa is Haudenosaunee and Swedish and is based in Vancouver, BC. She currently serves as the Indigenous Student Engagement Advisor at the UBC Sauder School of Business. Beyond her professional role, Elsa is the treasurer and a board member of Indigenous Women Outdoors, where she helps create safe opportunities for Indigenous women to connect with the land and with one another throughout the Sea to Sky corridor. In the winter, she works as a ski coach for Lillooet youth in Whistler, BC, and mentors participants in the backcountry ski mentorship program through Indigenous Women Outdoors.  

Beginning in September 2026, Elsa will start her MA in Human Development, Learning, and Culture, with a focus on Indigenous Cultural Safety Training. Across her work in education, community leadership, and outdoor sport, Elsa’s efforts reflect her deep commitment to uplifting Indigenous Peoples through outdoor sport and economic development. 

Ernie Daniels, CPA, CGA, CAFM, President and CEO, First Nations Finance Authority (FNFA).

As President and Chief Executive Officer, Ernie Daniels manages the business affairs of First Nations Finance Authority (FNFA). He is a Chartered Professional Accountant and a Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager.

From Salt River First Nation, Ernie moved from Ottawa to Kelowna in 2011 to work with FNFA as Director of Finance and was subsequently appointed as President and CEO in June 2012. Prior to FNFA, he was the President and Chief Operating Officer of the Aboriginal Financial Officers Association (AFOA) of Canada for 7 years and the Director of Assessment and Finance Operations at the Aboriginal Healing Foundation (AHF) for 5 years.

Ernie has worked for Indigenous non-profit organizations in various leadership and management positions. He has served on numerous boards and committees and was recently appointed as the inaugural First Nations director to the Bank of Canada Board of Directors. He was also a member of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (CICA) Research Study Group looking at financial reporting by First Nations; Chair of the NWT Legislative Assembly Society; Vice-Chair of the NWT Development Corporation; Board member of the First Nations Financial Management Board (FMB) and Chair of the Audit Committee and was a member of the Standards, Approvals, and Certification Committee. Ernie was a Board member of the Canadian Executive Service Organization (CESO); he won Xerox Canada-AFOA Excellence in Aboriginal Leadership Award in 2014, as well as BIV’s Top BC CEO Award in 2024.

“What gets me up every day to do my job is that I’m seeking a better quality of life for our communities.” ~ Ernie Daniels

Thomas Benjoe (Muscowpetung First Nation) Founding Partner – OneHoop Founding Partner & CEO, Flowing River Capital

Thomas Benjoe is an Indigenous Business Leader and Entrepreneur from Muscowpetung First Nation. He is currently a Founding Partner & CEO of Flowing River Capital, an Indigenous Private Equity Firm, and Founding Partner at OneHoop, an Indigenous Advisory firm based in Saskatchewan. Through his leadership, he has grown several multi-million dollar investments across multiple sectors using his unique business models and strategy. Those investments were often made with limited resources and capital and in one such investment he started, scaled and sold Saskatchewan’s first Indigenous tech company for an 1,150% return. Thomas also leads several strategies in Indigenous Engagement, Procurement, Indigenous HR, and Investments. Through the strategies he has built he has helped to unlock many new opportunities for Indigenous business to thrive and Indigenous talent to be built sustainably.  Thomas currently serves on the Board of Directors at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, Board of Director of Economic Development Regina, Member of Regina Growth Board, and member of the Saskatchewan Roughriders Indigenous Task Group. He also serves on the board of Pathway Supply, Reconciliation Education and Marshall Land Systems.   

Thomas received the King Charles III Coronation Medal & Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal for contributions to Business & Commerce, was a finalist for the 2023 CANDO Economic Developer of the Year Award, was recognized in The Globe and Mail’s Report on Business Magazine as a Top 50 Changemakers in Canada, and was recognized as one of the Top 10 Most Influential Economic Developers by Treaty 4 News.  

Thomas also served as United Way “Community Champion”, the recipient of the Crowning Achievement Young Alumni Award from the University of Regina, recognized by CBC’s “Future 40”, the Red Cross’ “Young Humanitarian of the Year”, and a “Top Performer” Convention Winner which recognizes the top 1% of RBC employees. 

Crystal Smith (Haisla Nation) Former Chief Councillor, Haisla Nation | Indigenous Economic Leader | Advocate for Sustainable Development 

Crystal Smith served the Haisla Nation for 12 years, including eight as Chief Councillor (2017–2025), leading a transformative shift from managing poverty to managing opportunity, success, and independence. She is recognized nationally for advancing Indigenous economic self-determination through projects that balance prosperity with environmental stewardship.

Under her leadership, the Haisla Nation played a central role in LNG Canada, launched HaiSea Marine—the world’s first fully electric tugboat fleet—and secured the $6 billion Cedar LNG Project, the largest Indigenous-led infrastructure investment in Canadian history. These ventures have enabled the Nation to fund programs independently and create lasting benefits for future generations.

Crystal is the former Chair of the First Nations Natural Gas Alliance, a former Director of the First Nations Climate Initiative, a Board Director at Taseko Mines and Snowline Gold and is a member of TC Energy and the Major Projects Office Indigenous Advisory Council’s. Her achievements have earned her BC Business Women of the Year, Public Policy Forum Honouree, Energy Person of the Year, and the King Charles III Coronation Medal.

A proud mother, grandmother, and athlete, Crystal remains deeply connected to her community while championing Indigenous leadership and economic reconciliation across Canada. 

Matt Smith (Métis Nation-Saskatchewan), Vice President of Stakeholder and Government Relations, Kitsaki Management

Matt Smith is a proud citizen of the Métis Nation-Saskatchewan and is a passionate advocate for Indigenous economic sovereignty. Matt currently works for the over 13,000 members of the Lac LaRonge Indian Band as the Vice President of Stakeholder and Government Relations with Kitsaki Management, the Band’s economic development corporation. 

Prior to joining Kitsaki Management, Matt served as the CEO of the Saskatchewan Indigenous Investment Finance Corporation and led the team responsible for developing and advancing Government of Saskatchewan initiatives to support economic reconciliation.  

Christa Dewar, Regional Sales Manager, Canada, TMX Datalinx

Christa has dedicated her career to the financial services sector, bridging the gap between investors seeking returns and companies pursuing growth capital. In her current role as Regional Sales Manager at TMX Datalinx, she oversees the Canadian territory, supporting clients who rely on Datalinx solutions to drive intelligent, data-backed market decisions. A veteran of the industry with 18 years at TMX Group, Christa is a staunch advocate for market accessibilit

She believes that education is the key to a financial ecosystem that works for all and frequently lends her expertise to programs that empower investors and listed companies alike to participate confidently in the capital markets.

Henry (Chih-hung) Liu, Executive Director, Economic Division, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Canada

Sue McNamara, BA, CFA, Senior Vice President, Fixed Income, Head of Responsible Investing 

Sue joined Beutel Goodman in 2006 and has over 31 years of investment experience. She is a portfolio manager and the head of credit. Sue is also the head of responsible investing for Beutel Goodman. Prior to joining Beutel Goodman, Sue worked as an equity and credit research analyst for several of the large investment dealers, most recently BMO Nesbitt Burns. Sue is a graduate of the University of Western Ontario and a CFA charterholder. In 2024, Sue was named to the Canadian Bond Investors Association Board of Directors. Sue also sits on the Board of the Beutel Goodman Charitable Foundation. Sue was named to the Benefits and Pension Monitor Hot List in 2023 recognizing 45 movers and shakers whose contributions have helped shape the benefits, pension and institutional investment space. Sue has presented at several conferences on the topic of sustainable finance. 

Geoff Gay, CEO, Athabasca Basin Development 

Geoff has been with Athabasca Basin Development since the company’s inception over 20 years ago. As CEO, he is responsible for evaluating new opportunities for the Indigenous-owned investment company and monitoring existing investments/operations. Under his leadership, the company has grown to include investments in 16 companies providing a wide range of services, over $100M in partners capital and the investments collectively employ over 500 Indigenous people. ABD has won numerous awards, including SaskBusiness Magazine’s Business of the Year, the Prospector and Developers Association of Canada’s Skookum Jim award, and Geoff was named the Business Leader of the Year at the 2017 Saskatchewan ABEX awards. In addition to his duties as CEO, Geoff sits on numerous boards and committees. He has a Bachelor of Business Administration from St. Francis Xavier University with a major in Management and his Directors Education Program (DEP) designation through the Institute of Chartered Directors (ICD). 

  

  

Susanna Zagar, President & CEO, Canadian Gas Association

Susanna Zagar is an accomplished executive, industry advisor and governance professional who has shaped the Canadian energy landscape through her regulatory expertise, public policy advocacy and commitment to consumer protection. Currently, the President & CEO of the Canadian Gas Association (CGA), Susanna, is focused on aligning strategy with execution, strengthening organizational impact, and building partnerships that advance the Canadian energy advantage.

Prior to joining the CGA, Susanna spent five years at the helm of the Ontario Energy Board (OEB), the largest independent economic energy regulator in North America, where she had oversight of the generation, transmission and distribution of both electricity and natural gas. As OEB CEO, Susanna was recognized as a new class of energy regulator, with a clear vision for delivering public value through a fit-for-purpose regulatory framework.

Named as one of Canada’s 100 Most Powerful Women, Susanna has a BA from Simon Fraser University, completed executive programs at Harvard Business School and Stanford School of Business and holds governance designations from the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD.D) and Competent Boards, ESG (GCB.D).

Luke Schauerte, Chief Executive Officer, Woodfibre LNG

Luke Schauerte is the Chief Executive Officer of Woodfibre LNG, a Pacific Energy Corporation (Canada) Limited company, and is leading the development of one of Canada’s most innovative and sustainable LNG export projects. Appointed CEO in November 2024, Schauerte brings over two decades of leadership experience in the Canadian and international energy sectors.

Before joining Woodfibre LNG, Schauerte served as Vice President, Asset at LNG Canada, where he played a pivotal role in the construction and commissioning of Canada’s first large-scale LNG export facility. His career also includes senior leadership roles with Shell in both Canada and abroad, where he drove transformational change across major infrastructure and manufacturing operations, including the Shell Scotford Complex in Alberta. Prior to his career at Shell, Schauerte spent nine years serving in the Royal Canadian Navy and holds a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the Royal Military College of Canada.

Schauerte brings a steadfast commitment to safety, community and responsible operation at a pivotal stage in Woodfibre LNG’s construction. Under his leadership, the Woodfibre team is focused on ensuring the project is delivered successfully and that Woodfibre LNG builds a foundation in the Sea to Sky region as a good neighbour and a reliable and trustworthy facility operator.

Donna St. Louis (Nlaka’pamux), National Lead for Indigenous business | Inclusive Trade Export Development Canada (EDC) 

Donna is from the Nlaka’pamux Nation in British Columbia and has dedicated her career to supporting Indigenous economic development. In her role at EDC, she strives to increase opportunities for Canadian Indigenous companies that export or are interested in growing their business through exporting. 

Her professional experience includes working with the First Nations Finance Authority (FNFA), where she helped First Nation governments access capital. Prior to the FNFA, she assisted Indigenous entrepreneurs in obtaining financing and funding with Tale’awtxw Aboriginal Capital Corporation (TACC). 

Donna lives in Squamish, BC, on the traditional territory of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw, with her husband and two children, enjoying the surrounding mountains and coastlines. 

Blake Hutcheson, President and Chief Executive Officer, OMERS

Blake Hutcheson is the President and CEO of OMERS, one of Canada’s largest and most respected pension plans. In this role, he combines decades of investment expertise and long-term vision.

Blake’s career is dedicated to building things that stand the test of time. This includes investing in and developing some of the world’s most iconic companies and assets, and driving the continued growth, performance, and sustainability of OMERS.  Prior to leading OMERS, Blake was President and CEO of Oxford Properties and before that Chair and President of Canada, Latin America and Mexico of CB Richard Ellis.

Blake is a member of the Order of Ontario, a recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal, and a past recipient of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40.  Blake is a graduate of the University of Western Ontario. He completed a Graduate Diploma in International and Comparative Politics at the London School of Economics (with Distinction) and a Master’s Degree in Real Estate Development at Columbia University (where he received the Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2017). While his work spans continents, Blake’s roots remain firmly in Ontario.

Jennifer Cooke, Director, Small Business, Customer Care & Inclusive Trade, Export Development Canada

Jennifer Cooke joined Export Development Canada in 2010 to work directly with Canadian companies and help them succeed in international markets. As the Director for Small Business, Customer Care, and Inclusive Trade, she leads a team that is focused on helping more Canadian businesses, and especially those owned by women, Indigenous, and other diverse Canadian entrepreneurs, realize their global potential with confidence by removing barriers, creating an equitable playing field, and increasing accessibility to products and services. She’s inspired by Canadian entrepreneurs and believes strongly in the untapped potential to grow Canada’s economy and positively impact communities by empowering more Indigenous companies to scale their business and grow through international trade. She’s committed to deepening relationships, making connections, and sharing trade knowledge and expertise with businesses so they can confidently make their mark in global supply chains and international markets. 

Jennifer lives with her family in Burlington, Ontario, and are guests on the Treaty Lands and traditional territory of the Missisaugas of the Credit First Nation, lands which are rich in history and modern traditions of the Anishinaabeg, the Haudenosaunee and the Métis. A graduate of the University of Western Ontario’s Richard Ivey School of Business, she has enjoyed a variety of professional experiences working both in large multinational corporations, and as part of an entrepreneurial start-up. Jennifer’s knowledge is enriched by international work experiences across Turtle Island, including in the USA and Mexico, as well as in the UK.  

Emily Black, VP Corporate Strategy & Power, Enbridge

As the Vice President of Corporate Strategy & Power at Enbridge, Emily leads Power development and M&A, corporate-wide strategy and fundamentals and serves as Coordinating Subcommittee Chair for the National Petroleum Council’s Future Energy Systems study.  

Over her 13 years with Enbridge, Emily led significant natural gas transmission and storage investments in western Canada. Before being named to her current role, she led Strategic Projects & Partnerships in British Columbia, including the historic investment by 38 First Nations in the Westcoast natural gas pipeline system. 

Emily holds a Master of Arts from Carleton University’s Norman Paterson School of International Affairs and a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of New Brunswick. She is a recipient of the UNB Young Alumni Achievement Award and the King Charles III Coronation Medal. 

Josh Kierce, CFO, Selkirk Copper & Nations Royalty, Director of Pacific Ridge Exploration

Mr. Kierce is a Chartered Professional Accountant with eight years of experience in accounting and investment banking primarily focused on the metals and mining sector.

Throughout his career, he has been involved in financings raising over $450M for mining companies. He is currently the CFO of Selkirk Copper and Nations Royalty, and also a Director of Pacific Ridge Exploration. Previously, Mr. Kierce worked in Investment Banking at Stifel Nicolaus Canada and PI Financial Corp. (now Ventum Financial Corp.).

Mr. Kierce began his career at PricewaterhouseCoopers(PwC) and holds a Bachelor of Technology in Accounting from the British Columbia Institute of Technology.

Trevor Gardner, Head, Global Investment Banking Coverage, RBC Capital Markets

Trevor Gardner is Head of Global Investment Banking Coverage and a member of the Capital Markets Operating Committee at RBC Capital Markets.

With more than 25 years of capital markets experience at RBC, Trevor has held roles across Investment Banking and Equity Capital Markets in Toronto and Calgary. He was previously Head of Canadian Investment Banking and Co-Head of Canadian Energy Investment Banking.

Trevor brings extensive experience advising clients on a broad range of transactions, including mergers and acquisitions as well as debt and equity financing.

He is actively engaged in senior client coverage and provides advice to clients across industries.

Trevor is an executive member of RBC Capital Markets’ Canadian Diversity Leadership Council.

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Trevor is deeply involved in community initiatives, serving as Chair of Right To Play’s Canadian Advisory Board and Chair of the Board of Directors for YMCA Calgary. He is also a member of the Dean’s Advisory Council for the Lazaridis School of Business and Economics at Wilfrid Laurier University.

Originally from Saskatchewan, Trevor holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) from Wilfrid Laurier University and is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA).

Derrick Pattenden, (Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte) President, CEO, and Director of Nations Royalty 

Prior to his appointment as President and Chief Executive Officer of Nations Royalty, Derrick Pattenden served as the company’s Chief Investment Officer beginning in May 2024. 

He is an accomplished investment banker with over 15 years of experience in the mining industry, specializing in finance and mergers and acquisitions. Over the course of his career, he has completed M&A transactions with a combined equity value exceeding C$20 billion, and he has direct experience with transactions involving the creation of new mining royalties, and royalty companies, as well as the restructuring of existing metal streaming agreements. 

Mr. Pattenden began his investment banking career in Vancouver in 2009 with Genuity Capital Markets. Prior to joining Nations Royalty, he served as Director, Investment Banking at Canaccord Genuity, where he advised TSX and TSX Venture–listed companies and focused exclusively on the mineral exploration and mining sector. 

He holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Mining Engineering from the University of British Columbia and holds a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation. 

Mr. Pattenden is a proud band member of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte. 

Michael Peters, (Glooscap First Nation), CEO, Glooscap Ventures

Michael currently serves as the CEO at Glooscap Ventures, Glooscap First Nation’s economic development corporation. He has been with the organization since 2015. Michael started out as an Economic Development Officer with Glooscap First Nation in 2015 and eventually moved into other management roles and then to the CEO position.

In 2023 Michael graduated with his Executive Master’s in Business Administration (EMBA) from Saint Mary’s University in Halifax. Michael also attended Dalhousie University where he
studied renewable energy technologies and graduated with the Sustainable Energy Technologies Professional Certification (SEPT). Before both Saint Mary’s and Dalhousie, Michael had attended the Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) where he studied International Business.
Before post-secondary and Glooscap Ventures, Michael was an entrepreneur with investments in the food and beverage industry.

Michael’s background is in business development where he contributed to the creation of Glooscap Landing, Glooscap Corner, Glooscap Energy, Indigenous Gaming Partners (IGP) and the Glooscap Seafood companies. Today these companies employ many community members and generate own source revenue for the community of Glooscap First Nation.

Michael is the current Co-Chair for the Mi’kmaq-Canada-Nova Scotia Triparted Economic Development Committee, Chair of the Annapolis Valley Chamber of Commerce, Board Member of the National Indigenous Connectivity Initiative, and Board Member of Wskijinu’k Mtmo’taqnow Agency (WMA) a corporate partnership owned by all 13 Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq communities. Michael also serves as the Chair of the Indigenous Gaming Partners (IGP) Board of
Directors, one of the largest entertainment companies in Canada. He is also an active member of the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers (CANDO), Institute of Corporate Director (ICD) and Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA). In 2025 Michael was named to the Top 50 CEOs in Atlantic Canada by the Atlantic Business Magazine.

Michael is a proud member of the Mi’kmaw community of Glooscap First Nation. He lives in the small town of Hantsport with his wife Audrey, daughter Faye and pug Darwin.

Kristan H. Straub, P.Geo., President and Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Indigenous Loan
Guarantee Corporation.

Over the course of nearly 30 years, Kristan has cultivated a remarkable career spanning
mineral exploration, operations, and executive management across diverse international
landscapes. His profound expertise has led him to hold significant positions, including his
current role as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Indigenous Loan Guarantee Corporation, as Non-Executive Director for Wyloo and recently as CEO, Canada for Wyloo, working in partnership with several communities for the advancement and development of some of Canada’s most important strategic mineral deposits. Prior to this, Kristan served as a valued member of Glencore Nickel’s executive team as Vice President of Exploration. His global leadership also includes his tenure as President of Koniambo Nickel SAS in New Caledonia, a 51:49 percent JV majority owed by the local Kanak population.

Demonstrating a commitment to safety, operational excellence and collaborative partnerships, Kristan held the role of Vice President of Glencore’s Raglan Mine in Nunavik from 2014 to 2018. During his tenure Raglan achieved record safety performance, being recognized both provincially and nationally for safety leadership. Leading teams that increased annual production over 25%. Kristan also lead the team that re-negotiated with the Inuit of Nunavik the historic Raglan Impacts and Benefits Agreement, Canada’s first.

Many of these changes and improvements continue on today. His dedication to the advancement of the mining sector extends beyond his corporate responsibilities. Kristan currently serves on the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors for both the Mining Association of Canada and the Mining Association of Ontario, contributing his strategic insights to the industry’s growth and sustain ability.

Adding to his distinguished profile, Kristan is a proud band member of Henvey Inlet and French River No. 13 First Nation, underscoring his strong ties to his community and heritage. Kristan (Hon. B.Sc. Geology ‘98) (Doctorate of Law honoris causa ‘25), both from Laurentian University. Kristan is married to Dr. Jennifer Straub, the proud father of Mackenzie, and Eriksen.

Booker Cornea, (Saskatchewan Métis Nation) Associate Vice President – Market and Shareholder Engagement, First Nations Bank of Canada. 

Booker is a proud Citizen of the Saskatchewan Métis Nation and currently resides with his family on Treaty 4 Territory in Regina, Saskatchewan. He brings over 20 years of experience partnering with Indigenous communities and businesses. He has been instrumental in launching FNBC’s $100M Infrastructure Lending Program with the Canada Infrastructure Bank, and the $100M Business Acquisition Financing Program with the Business Development Bank of Canada, both designed to increase access to capital for Indigenous communities across the country. 

Booker is passionate about empowering Nation Builders and advancing Indigenous economic growth.  As he puts it: “We do the financial part of Nation Building.” 

Connect with Booker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/booker-cornea. 

Jon Davey (Lower Cayuga, Six Nations of the Grand River), Managing Director, Indigenous & Government Advisory – Investment Banking, Scotiabank.

Jon is a member of the Lower Cayuga of the Six Nations of the Grand River and the Managing Director of the Indigenous & Government Advisory practice within Scotiabank’s Global Banking & Markets. He recently served as the Chief-of-Staff to the CEO of Scotiabank and for several years was the Vice President of Indigenous Financial Services at Scotiabank. Before joining the bank, Jon was a Federal Crown Counsel and Special Advisor to the Assistant Deputy Minister responsible for Indigenous Affairs within the Department of Justice Canada.

Jon also serves as a Captain in the Canadian Armed Forces primary reserve and is an Aide de Camp to the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. He sits on the boards of the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business and the Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital.

Jon holds a Master of Public Administration degree from Cornell University, a Juris Doctorate from Osgoode Hall Law School, and an honours B.A. from Brock University. He has been named as one of Canada’s Top 40 under 40 and was recently awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in connection with his military service.

Robert Brant (Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte), Partner & Co-head of McCarthy Tétrault’s Indigenous Projects & Transactions Group.

Robert Brant is a partner and the Co-head of McCarthy Tétrault’s Indigenous Projects & Transactions Group. He is an experienced corporate and commercial lawyer, focusing his practice on mergers & acquisitions, capital markets and projects work as they relate to Canada’s Indigenous people.

Having spent more than 20 years as the Managing Partner of the firm’s London, England office, few Canadian lawyers have as much international experience or as many international contacts to draw upon in crafting solutions to meet the growing needs of Canada’s Indigenous economy for our Indigenous and non – Indigenous clients alike.

Mr. Brant’s experience extends to a number of different sectors with a focus on all forms of energy and natural resources. He advises many of our Canadian and foreign corporate clients including banks and pension funds as well Indigenous-led corporates and the economic development arms of various Indigenous communities across Canada.

Rob is member of the board of directors of the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business and a past Chair of both the Canada-UK Chamber of Commerce and the Maple Leaf Trust where he remains a director of both.

He is a regular speaker on a broad range of economic development issues as they relate to Indigenous communities and is a proud member of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte, a Kanyen’kéha (Mohawk) community and territory located halfway between Toronto and Montreal.

Stuart Chambers, Chair, Anglo American

Stuart Chambers chairs Anglo American Plc and is also a Visiting Fellow of the University of Oxford.  Stuart graduated from University College London in Physics in 1977 and started his career with Shell as a chemical engineer. After 10 years with Shell he spent 10 years with the Mars Corporation and joined Pilkington Plc in 1996, where he was appointed Group Chief Executive in 2002. Pilkington was acquired by Nippon Sheet Glass in June 2006 and Stuart became Group Chief Executive of the new combined Group from which role he retired in March 2010.  Stuart was Chairman of Travis Perkins plc from 2017 to 2021, Rexam PLC from 2012 to 2016 and ARM Holdings Plc from 2014 to 2016 and served as a non-executive director on the Boards of Tesco Plc, Tesco Bank, Manchester Airport Group, Smiths Group Plc and Associated British Ports Holdings Plc.  He also served as member of The Takeover Panel from 2016 to 2023. Stuart is married with 3 children and enjoys sport of any kind, but predominantly sailing and rugby.

Clint Davis, (Nunatsiavut Inuit) CEO, Cedar Leaf Capital

Clint Davis is CEO of Cedar Leaf Capital, Canada’s first majority Indigenous-owned investment dealer focused on fostering greater Indigenous participation in capital markets. He has over 10 years of experience in the financial sector, primarily in commercial banking. He served at the executive level for one of the big five banks where he developed and led the Indigenous Banking strategy. He was on the Board of Directors for Vancity Community Investment Bank (VCIB), the Schedule 1 bank wholly owned subsidiary of Vancity and Chair of the Governance and Executive Compensation Committee. He was also a member of the Investment Committee for the first and only Indigenous venture capital fund, Raven Capital Partners, in Canada.

Clint is a recognized national leader in Indigenous business and worked with Indigenous communities and development corporations from coast to coast to coast for over 20 years. He is the former Board Chair of Nunatsiavut Group of Companies, the economic development corporation for his community. He is also the former CEO of the Canadian Council for Aboriginal (now Indigenous) Business and the former CEO of Nunasi Corporation, an Inuit Development Corporation headquartered in Iqaluit, Nunavut.

Clint was recognized for his contribution to Indigenous business with the Indspire Award in the Business and Commerce category, the highest honour awarded to an individual by the Indigenous community. In 2015, Clint was recognized as a Distinguished Alumni by Acadia University. 

 A graduate of Harvard University, Clint holds his Master in Public Administration degree in business and government policy. He was also a Canada-US Fulbright Scholar. Prior to earning his master’s degree, Clint completed his Bachelor of Laws (LLB) at Dalhousie University, as well as his Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Finance from Acadia University. Clint has an ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors. 

He is Inuk from Labrador and a Beneficiary under the Labrador Inuit Land Claim Agreement. 

Sean Willy (Deninu Kue First Nation), CEO, Des Nedhe Group

Sean Willy is the CEO of Des Nedhe Group, the economic development corporation of English River First Nation. Since taking over the role Sean, a member of the Deninu Kue First Nation in the NWT, has taken Des Nedhe to a national & international stage, growing & diversifying into new business sectors and regions all while maintaining high levels of Indigenous employment.
In 2026 Des Nedhe was awarded the Skookum Jim award from the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada for leading edge Indigenous support for the Saskatchewan resource industry.

In his career, Sean has developed and implemented the most innovative Indigenous Inclusion, ESG & Socially Responsible strategies for resource companies such as Rio Tinto and Cameco Corporation.

He has championed Indigenous peoples to be seen as a full partner in long-term relationships value added relationships.

Sean is a board member for TELUS Corporation & the Nuclear Waste Management Organization. He is a past board member of Green First Forest and the Ronald McDonald House Saskatchewan. Sean has also been past Co-Chair of the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB) and has previously sat on the Canadian government’s Indigenous Innovation Housing Committee and the Indigenous Advisory Committee on Small Module Reactors.

Sean is a graduate of the University of Saskatchewan, holds his ICD designation he was honoured with the King Charles III Coronation Medal in 2024, and in 2026 was awarded the CCIB’s Lifetime Achievement Award for his progressive strategies and support of Indigenous businesses.

Sean has two children and lives with his wife Melissa in Saskatoon.

Angel Ransom, Stewardship Technical Lead, Firelight

Angel Ransom is a Stewardship Technical Lead with Firelight and a member of Nak’azdli Whut’en First Nation (Northern BC). She brings over 15 years of experience supporting Indigenous- led land-use planning and impact assessment across local, provincial, and national contexts. Her work focuses on advancing Indigenous rights, cultural integrity, and community well-being through Indigenous-designed planning and assessment processes.
Prior to joining Firelight, Angel held senior leadership roles with the First Nations Major Projects Coalition, where she led the development of Indigenous-designed Impact Assessment Standards and the Spirit of the Land Indigenous Cultural Rights and Interests Toolkit. She was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in 2025 in recognition of her leadership and service.

Bill Lomax, LL.B., MBA, (Gitxsan Nation) President and CEO First Nations Bank of Canada

Bill Lomax is the President and CEO of the First Nations Bank of Canada (FNBC) and a member of the Gitxsan Nation. Bill grew up in Terrace, B.C. and studied in Vancouver before heading south to spend 22 years working on Wall Street and in Private equity in the United States.

As a graduate of UBC’s law school, Mr. Lomax began his career as a lawyer facilitating land claim negotiations for the British Columbia Treaty Commission. After obtaining his MBA at Columbia University, he later worked for the Canadian Federal Department of Justice before entering the investment sector in the United States, working for firms such as Merrill Lynch and Goldman Sachs.

Lomax believes the First Nations Bank of Canada will be a catalyst to create economic growth that is inclusive and sustainable in Indigenous Nations and communities. His deep experience in the US will serve him well. He worked with Native American Tribes across the US and was entrusted with managing multi-billions in Indigenous assets over the course of his career.

The First Nations Bank of Canada is a federally chartered bank, with decades of experience serving Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples throughout Canada. FNBC has over 20 locations in six provinces and three territories and more than $1B in holdings.

Sharleen Gale (Fort Nelson First Nation), Executive Chair to the Board of Directors, FNMPC

Sharleen Gale has served as the chair of the board of directors for the First Nations Major Projects Coalition (FNMPC) since 2017, overseeing a tremendous period of growth for the organization in which she has carried FNMPC messages on the economic inclusion of First Nations to the regional, national, and international stage. As an experienced community leader, Sharleen was elected to the council of Fort Nelson First Nation, serving 15 years with 8 of those years as Chief.

She is the grand-daughter of Fred Burke and Madeline Needlay. Her roots run deep in the lives of her people and she enjoys being on the land with her family exploring the territory and teaching her son the traditional ways on the lands and how to hunt, fish, and gather medicines and berries.  

Sharleen’s experience as a community leader is furthered by her corporate experience in the oil and gas, renewable energy, and forestry sectors. During the 2020 Global Pandemic, Sharleen served the Province of BC as a member of the Premier’s Economic Recovery Task Force. In 2023, she was appointed to serve on the Canada Electricity Advisory Council. In 2024, Sharleen was appointed to serve as the Indigenous member of the International Energy Agency’s Global Commission on the People-Centred Energy Transition.   

Sharleen is a recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal awarded to her in recognition for her dedication to public service and leadership in economic development.